Candice Gwinn

Owner & Designer, Trashy Diva

By Mirella Cameran

Cheryl Gerber Photograph

What is special about Trashy Diva? Trashy Diva is unique in many ways. From our French Quarter-inspired prints to our new vintage-inspired Seersucker Collection, we make clothing with New Orleans in mind. We stock all the lingerie and shapewear needed for a perfect hourglass shape, and even have retro-inspired swimwear. We also have shoes and accessories to match our clothing.

Where do you source your designs? Trashy Diva by Candice Gwinn is designed here in New Orleans! All of my designs are vintage-inspired with a more classic than costume look. We source our lingerie, shoes and accessories from all over the world, and they’re often custom-made for us.

Why is this era of fashion perennially appealing? I love the 1930s-’50s for the figure-flattering silhouettes and feminine color palettes. Vintage details are so inspiring– embroidery, rhinestones and beading.

What are you excited about? The new prints arriving and extending our size ranges to include more plus-sized items up to size 24.

Tell us three things no one knows? In 1996 I started the Trashy Diva brand with $5,000. The original 500-square-foot boutique is now a restroom for a club. Today Trashy Diva is sold in more than 75 boutiques all over the world.

How did you get started?
Through working with vintage clothing, I developed a love of design and construction. In 1999, I launched a two-piece collection that has now grown to 10 to 15 new styles bi-monthly.

What are your top sellers? Sundresses and rompers in our original prints!